February 25, 2025
Sometimes you just want to get on a train and watch the scenery race by. Luckily, traveling by train to Kannapolis means you don’t need a car to have a great visit to Cabarrus County, North Carolina.
The Kannapolis Amtrak Station (KAN) is located near plenty of food, shopping and entertainment in downtown Kannapolis. Lace up some comfy walking shoes and get ready for a fun time exploring all the region has to offer.
Experience History and Culture
Your itinerary for what to do in Kannapolis starts just across the street from the Amtrak station at Dale Earnhardt Tribute Plaza, where the NASCAR legend is celebrated in his own hometown. Don’t miss the 9-foot, 900-pound bronze sculpture of Earnhardt. Nearby, Veterans Park honors those who served in wars dating back to the Revolutionary War and features monuments and an Eternal Flame.
Nearby, check out The Swanee Theatre next, which boasts incredible acoustics dating back to its construction in 1939 and a beautiful vintage marquee. The 400-seat venue, once a movie theater, was remodeled in recent years and now hosts concerts and special events, so check out their events calendar. If you’re more in the mood for a movie, stroll over to the historic single-screen Gem Theatre, which boasts many Art Deco details from its original construction in 1936 along with first-run movies and affordable concessions.
Music fans should carve out time for the 20-minute walk to the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, where you can visit exhibits that celebrate the legacies of musicians with links to the state. And if you want more history, check out the Curb Motorsports Museum, which shares space with the Hall of Fame.
A Blast for the Whole Family
If you’re in search of family fun, Kannapolis has plenty. Start with a stop at James’ Sweet Spot for puzzles, nostalgic candy and specialty treats. Next, visit The Slot Car Track, an indoor raceway and hobby shop for slot cars. At The Slot Car Track, you can rent a slot car — or bring your own — and enjoy the excitement.
Five minutes more by foot and you’re at the Atrium Health Ballpark, home of the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers. The minor league team (an affiliate of the Chicago White Sox) plays from April to September, and you can check their calendar for home games which kick off on April 4, 2025 during Opening Day. With great food options, a playground, a splash pad and plenty of surprises, a Cannon Ballers game is a blast for everyone.
If the weather is good and you’re up for a stroll, head to Village Park, where you’ll find an amphitheater, playground, walking trail, train rides, a splash pad and more. In the summer, you can catch free outdoor entertainment, including Movies in the Park and the Village Park Concert Series. During the holidays, don’t miss the Celebration of Lights, which includes nightly activities, carols, Santa visits and more.
Just around the corner from the Ballpark is Kingpin Underground. They have lanes for Duckpin bowling, which dates to the 1900s and uses smaller balls and pins than traditional bowling. If you’re more into arcade games or karaoke, Kingpin’s got you covered, too.
Eat, Drink and Enjoy
Kingpin Underground is located just below Old Armor Beer Company and Tipsy Hare Ciderworks, so if you’re looking for a place to have a pint, you’re already set. Cabarrus is also a stop on the NC Ale by Trail by Rail, so if you’re in the mood to explore, check out the website and, after sampling local brews, hop on to the next destination.
If you’re on the hunt for caffeine, try the veteran-owned Local Patriot Roasting Company, just a short walk from the station, where you can grab a cup of locally roasted coffee. Looking for a good read to go with your cup? Check out Editions Coffee Shop and Bookstore, where you can also purchase local goods and art.
Nearby, West Loop Local offers handcrafted cocktails and food including sandwiches, salads, dips and charcuterie. Or try The Bank Food Hall, located in the Cabarrus Bank Building, a historic landmark from 1931. Inside you’ll find a range of cuisines from Asian-inspired to smoothies, bites and burgers, plus a full bar. For barbecue, try the stadium-side Towel City Tavern and if you’re hankering for a New York-style slice of pizza, head over to The Corner Crust, where you can get a slice or a whole pie.
Shop Treasures, New and Old
Take a five-minute walk across Main Street and you’ll find several places to shop for souvenirs. Discover Marketplace on Main, a mall boasting over 200 vendors selling antiques, vintage items, handmade goods, jewelry and much more. Find the latest fashion trends at locally owned apparel and gift boutiques like 3 Jem’s, Half-Moon Outfitters, Elle’s Tique, Palomino Western and others. Opening soon in their new location, Cardiacs caters to fans of sports memorabilia and trading card enthusiasts.
Get Around Town
In addition to walking, downtown visitors have the option of hopping aboard the West Avenue Express. This free shuttle runs during peak weekend hours, helping you get around downtown with four stops on a continuous loop. The two shuttles, nicknamed Lightning and Thunder, run from 5 – 10 p.m. every Friday and Saturday. For more details, check out the city’s website.
Make the Most of Your Visit
Ready to plan a longer trip to Cabarrus County? Our Destination Guide will help you plan, and you can find a place to stay, too.
